Maximum ram ESXi can manage?

[kenithg]

I have read a number of articles regarding max memory for windows 32 bit/64 bit but I can't get a clear picture of the limit for VM. (Useable ram). I'm sitting at 2 GB ram with the next level being 4 or 8. Any clarification or recommendations for my next level will be greately appreciated.

Ken

[Dave_Mishchenko · Accepted solution]

You can assign up to 64 GB to a VM, but if the OS has limits then you won't be able to exceed that. For example, with Windows 2008 standard the OS RAM limit for x86 is 4 GB and for x64 it is 32 GB. You could assign 64 GB to the VM, but the OS would only use 4 / 32 GB.

http://www.vmware.com/pdf/vi3_35/esx_3/r35u2/vi3_35_25_u2_config_max.pdf

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2008/en/us/compare-specs.aspx

[kenithg]

Thanks again Dave! I want to try running 3 virtual servers. (32 bit) It appears my first cut should be 8 GB and monitor from there. Your help is well appreciated.

Ken